History of Pipes and Drums
At the United
States Naval Academy
The Pipes and Drums Band was formed in 1996 through an endowment
from the USNA Class of 1961. They are a performing band providing highland
musical support to the Brigade of Midshipmen.
The U.S. Naval Academy Pipes and Drums is an approved BSA
(Brigade Support Activity) at the
United States Naval
Academy and, as such, is the only active duty pipe band in the
Department of the Navy. We are also one of only
three active duty
pipe bands in the United States Armed Forces, one being the
Pipes and Drums
of the Corps of Cadets at West
Point, and the other being the
Air Force
Reserve Pipe Band at Robins AFB in Warner Robins, GA.
Membership in the band is limited to current members of the Brigade
of Midshipmen. Although the band has Commissioned and
Non-Commissioned Officer advisors, and civilian instructors,
midshipmen are responsible for all band operations, in addition to
performing as musicians.
See our mission statement for an explanation of the role we play in the
Brigade.
The U.S. Naval Academy Pipes and Drums would like to
express its appreciation to the United States Naval Academy Class of
1961 and thank them for their continued support. Without their
generous contributions, this band would not be possible.